Be a Good Neighbor by
Jane
Bozza
Everybody loves Mr. Rogers, and can probably recite his signature song, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” Yet there’s another quote attributed to Fred Rogers that is not quite as well known, but is especially appropriate for this story: “Anyone who helps a child in his life is a hero to me.”
P
ossibly no one was more of a children’s advocate than Mr. Rogers, and he was definitely a hero in his own right. But, heroes come in many shapes and ages and from all walks of life. The staff and advocates that serve at the Glynn Community Crisis Center are most certainly heroes. For over 35 years, the Glynn Community Crisis Center has opened its arms to those fleeing from domestic violence, including their children. A variety of child-specific programs are offered, including stress-relieving dog therapy. Other activities provided include board games, outdoor play, reading time, movies and other special events throughout the year. There is no question that domestic violence takes its toll on the adults in those relationships, but, often, little attention is given to the children and youth in those homes. More than five 30
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million children witness domestic violence each year in the US. 40 million adult Americans grew up living with some level of domestic violence. These are not just statistics. These numbers relate to current and former children of domestic violence; real children and adults who struggle to survive and cope on a daily basis. Through Amity House, an emergency shelter, the Glynn Community Crisis Center has supported and empowered victims in creating a new life, free of domestic violence. The Glynn Community Crisis Center staff and advocates are very sensitive to the needs and feelings of the children. The Agency’s Outreach Coordinator Kathlene Manor recently assisted a client and her 16-year-old son at Amity House. “We helped register him for school, and prior to attending the first day, he expressed concern about not having the right shoes for school.
As his advocate, it became important for us to ensure that he had a pair of shoes that he would not feel out of place wearing as a new student in a new school. After collaborating with another agency, we were able to get the youth a brand new pair of shoes.” She continues, “He was so excited. He cleaned his shoes daily, and the smile on his face let us know that he felt at peace among his peers, even though he was living in a domestic violence shelter.” Glynn Community Crisis Center Coordinator Kathlene Manor: a hero.
The Agency’s Child/Family Advocate, Rachel Edwards, is watchful of the children, to ensure that their needs are met. “A client came into Amity House with her seven year old daughter. When it was time to go to school, (continues)
